What is FIRST Robotics?
FIRST Robotics aims to inspires students into careers of science and technology through building robots. Founded by Dean Kamen in 1989, FIRST Robotics aims to build the leaders of tomorrow by immersing them in a microcosm of the real world with high-pressure, team oriented activities that build communication skills, leadership and confidence. For more information, visit the FIRST Website.
What is the FIRST Robotics Competition (FRC) Program and how is FIRST Mid-Atlantic involved?
The FRC program at FIRST focuses primarily on high school students. At the first weekend of January, FIRST releases a game that is played on a basketball-sized playing field. Students are given 6 weeks to conceptualize, prototype, design, build, and program a robot to compete against each other in various tournaments. FIRST Mid-Atlantic was formed to conduct the FIRST Robotics Competition in the regions of New Jersey, Delaware and Eastern Pennsylvania by organizing events and supporting teams.
What is the impact of FIRST Robotics?
Here are a few documents from the FIRST website summarizing the impact:
- 2011, FTC/FRC Cross Program Evaluation, Executive Summary
- 2009, FRC District Tournament Pilot
- 2005, More than Robots: An Evaluation of FRC Participant and institutional Impacts, Executive Summary
Additional documents on the impact of the various FIRST programs can be found in the FIRST Resource Library.
How do I mentor an existing team or start a team?
For resources on starting an FIRST Robotics Competion team, there are many great resources on the FIRST website.
To see if there is an existing team by you, use the team locator tool on the FIRST website.
If you would like to start an FRC team, or if you want to become a mentor for an existing FRC team, send an email to [email protected].
FIRST Mid-Atlantic Mentor Programs:
Argosy Mentor Fellowship Program:
- A two year fellowship for up to 5 mentors who will serve as cornerstone mentors for our community. This will include a $1,000 stipend per year plus a $1,000 reimbursement for the first year to cover attendance at FIRST mentor geared conferences.
- To apply send an email to [email protected] with the following information:
- Short outline of how you will support other mentors in the FMA community
- Targeted conference to attend
- Participants will be selected on a rolling basis
Mentor Certification Reimbursement:
- Reimbursement of up to $250 in certification costs for up to 10 mentors each year (this can be used for NJ Substitute certifications).
- To apply for the reimbursement sent an email to [email protected] with the following information:
- Receipt for the certification
- Rationale for the certification
- Confirmation that you have obtained the certification with in the FY 23-24 fiscal year.
- Funds will be distributed as reimbursement requests are received